ReFRACTION Packable Backpack

Matador Refraction for a true packable. My usual combo is a small shoulder/crossbody as a personal item and day touring bag that I wear at the same time as my overhead backpack. Backpacks are better as far as water bottle carry. It’s entirely possible yoo might find me with a 40 liter backpack, a 6.

I assumed you were using the Matador as a packable for day touring. You’re way outside the usual onebag approach and if you need a 60 liter plus a 28, you need to start over with your packing list. Your clothing choices are both heavy and bulky. I usually travel with a sub 40 liter overhead complian

Onebagging and day hikes are no big problem. A packable day pack would be okay. The 30 liter wouldn’t be that bad. The Go Pack would work. I like the Matador Refraction but they are hard to find. The REI Flash 18 would work. Knives and multi tools and trekking poles are a problem for carry on. You c

Regarding the day bag, I totally understand your concerns because I had the exact same thoughts. I ended up biting the bullet and getting the ReFraction packable backpack from Matador. It's 65 GBP currently so not cheap at all, but I did get it on a black friday sale for 52 GBP. (I optimistically th

I think Osprey has changed that hardware a couple times. My pre-2025 Farpoint has no brand/mold markings on the buckles on the shoulder straps. I have seen schemes using paracord and small carabiners. The buckles have open sides so you can thread line through them. I find a pack on my front very cum

Matador Refraction. Packs small and has room for layers, food, and water. You don't need more than that for day hikes, I've used smaller packs to climb many volcanos in Mexico. I wouldn't recommend the Go Pack for hiking but I do use one as my main travel pack and its great

The Tom Bihn Packing Cube Shoulder Bag works great. The Side Hustle is about the same size if you want more organization. Keep a side bag lightly loaded for all day use. Water bottles are the challenge and I find a packable backpack like the Matador Refraction is better for that and the extra space

I just bought the Go Pack 2 and really like it. I won't just use it as my EDC but more of my day bag when I travel. It's lightweight and packs flat in my luggage. The outer pocket and the side water bottle pockets are handy and don't count in the 20l capacity. My other favorite is the Matador ReFrac

I was considering getting the Matador Refraction Packable Backpack. You might wanna check that out since you said you want something packable. There are good reviews about it, but I didnt end up buying it because it wasnt what I was actually looking for.

Depends on how long my trip is. For 2-3+ weeks, I usually carry a Matador Refraction packable bag, works great for day trips. For shorter trips, I might pack a small sling into my main bag and fill it with loose items like chargers and stuff till I get to my destination.